The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, on Monday, launched a statewide public awareness campaign aimed at reducing fire outbreaks during the harmattan season.
The move, according to Ayoola Michael Shola, the spokesman of the command, is in response to the recent surge in fire incidents in Ilorin, the state capital.
The Crisis Management Department of the NSCDC, through its Disaster Management Unit, conducted the sensitisation programme.
The Head of the Disaster Management Unit, Chibuzo Odeyemi, disclosed that the programme is designed to educate the public in high-risk areas, such as markets and densely populated communities, on effective fire prevention, preparedness, and response strategies.
As part of the initiative, NSCDC personnel visited Ipata Market, Oja Oba Market, Mandate Market, Oja Tuntun, and Shao Garage, where they engaged traders, motorists, and the general public on common sources of fire, such as improper handling of flammable substances, while emphasising essential safety measures and emergency response procedures.
She further disclosed that NSCDC has a statutory responsibility for disaster management and rescue operations and has conducted various awareness programmes on human actions that trigger disasters, urging the public to avoid such practices.
She further urged all residents to adhere to the safety tips provided and remain vigilant in preventing fire-related incidents during the season.
